Integrated Carton Reclose Feature with Removable Clips
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food packaging systems lack an efficient and user-friendly method for resealing secondary packages after initial use, leading to potential spoilage of unconsumed foodstuffs.
Innovation Solution
A storage assembly comprising a container with removably attached clips and flaps that allow for the resealing of sleeves containing foodstuffs, where the clips can be separated and reused to reenclose the sleeves within the container, maintaining freshness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing packaging systems are used without integrated reclose features, then the packaging structure remains simple, but the ability to preserve unconsumed foodstuffs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reclose feature directly into the packaging structure by integrating clips and flaps as inherent components of the container. The clips are attached to the container walls and work with flaps to create a recloseable seal, combining the protective function with the storage structure itself rather than adding separate preservation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging system is segmented into modular components including the container, removable clips, and flaps. Each clip can be independently attached or removed, and multiple clips can be used simultaneously or sequentially on different portions of the container, allowing flexible configuration based on the amount of food remaining.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If traditional packaging without reclose features is used, then the packaging is easy to manufacture, but the shelf life of foodstuffs deteriorates after initial use
Solution Approach 1:
The clips and flaps are pre-configured during manufacturing to enable reclosing functionality. The clips are attached to the container walls in predetermined positions, and flaps are pre-formed with aperture structures, so that the reclose capability is built into the packaging before it reaches the consumer, extending shelf life without requiring complex assembly by the end user.
3Ease of operation
If packaging lacks integrated reclose features, then the operation remains simple, but the convenience of resealing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging system enables self-service reclosing where the consumer can easily manipulate the clips and flaps to reseal the container without requiring additional tools or complex operations. The clips are designed to be attached and detached by hand, and the flaps naturally align with the aperture structures, making the reclose process intuitive and user-friendly.
Data Source
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AI summary
A storage assembly (10) comprises a sleeve (14) and a container (12). The sleeve (14) defines an interior void (76) operable to receive a foodstuff. The container (12) defines an interior cavity (20) operable to receive the sleeve (14). The container (12) includes a first sidewall (24a, 24b, 24c) and a second sidewall (24a, 24b, 24c). A first flap (18a, 18b, 18c) is attached to the first sidewall (24a, 24b, 24c) and a second flap (18a, 18b, 18c) is attached to the second sidewall (24a, 24b, 24c). The second flap (18a, 18b, 18c) includes at least one clip (48) removably attached to the second sidewall (24a, 24b, 24c). The clip (48) comprises an aperture (64) for receiving a portion of the sleeve (14) therein.